Plans to develop nine new apartments in Chester providing much-needed homes close to the city centre have been approved and work has begun on-site.
The proposal, which was given the green light by Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning committee in Autumn 2024, will see a disused Victorian primary school sensitively restored to create nine high-quality apartments, a combination of single, two and three bedroom accommodation, that will feature off-street parking with electric car charging points and a communal courtyard and gardens.
2 Overleigh Road, formerly St Mary’s school, in Handbridge, has not been regularly occupied since 2014. Although it is not listed, the building is recognised for its contribution to the history and character of the local Handbridge community.
The development will enhance the appearance of the building through the careful restoration and repair of its period features, such as the impressive façade, roof, mullion windows and gutters.
Trees, hedge plants, a vegetable garden and wildflowers will be introduced in a landscaped garden for use by residents, aiming to enhance biodiversity as well as benefit wellbeing.
Flat roof extensions to the rear will be removed and replaced with new mezzanines which are more in keeping with the original building and the plans also incorporate a new private access road and off-street bin storage areas.
It is expected that the properties will be marketed for let in Spring 2026 - should you wish to register your interest then please join our residential mailing list.
Images show the property's current look, how it appeared in the BBC drama World on Fire and an artists impression of the completed project.